Alan Wake 2 looks set to add to 2023's survival horror game roster with its unique flavor of light mechanics and storytelling. The recent Dead Space and Resident Evil 4 remakes may leave fans of the genre desperate for more, so Alan Wake 2 could fill that void. Fans of Resident Evil video games might notice a few parallels in the PlayStation showcase Alan Wake 2 trailer, such as the third-person camera over-the-shoulder perspective. However, there are a couple of things beyond the trailer some players might have missed that could be game-changing.
There were many significant Resident Evil 4 Remake changes compared to the original game that altered the story or gameplay for the better, like the improvements around Ashley's playable mission when rescuing Leon. As a sequel to the 2010 game, Alan Wake 2 looks like it might similarly introduce some new types of collectibles or unlockables for players to discover in addition to weapons and items players are likely to recognize from the original or remastered Alan Wake game. Although it's currently unconfirmed what collectibles will show up, there is some information about the possible new additions in the Alan Wake 2 pre-order packs, which might give players a clue about what else to expect as a potential page from Resident Evil 4's playbook is taken.
How Alan Wake 2’s Charms Could Impact Its Horror Survival Gameplay
Alan Wake 2 currently has standard Alan Wake 2 and Deluxe Edition preorder options, which include some pre-order extras. One noteworthy addition in both versions is a new charm feature for Alan Wake 2's new playable character, Saga. The standard edition includes a coffee mug charm that saves Saga from a killing blow. However, the small print adds this can only be used once as it breaks upon use, adding survival pack items become unlocked after the game's second mission. In comparison, the Deluxe edition includes a lantern charm for Saga, giving her an additional battery for the flashlight. It is currently unknown how players attach these charms, but presumably, they might appear somewhere in the player's inventory.
Interestingly, Alan Wake 2's charms also look noticeably similar to Resident Evil 4 Remake's charms, which players could attach to Leon's attaché case to give him certain buffs or perks, like the Striker charm which increases Leon's running speed by 8%, or the green herb health boost charm. Although it's currently unknown if any other charms might appear, players can imagine similar attachable Resident Evil 4 Remake-style charms that could give Alan and Saga a crucial advantage or critical save at key points in the story.
How Alan Wake 2 Might Improve Alan Wake Remastered’s Collectibles
Alan Wake's collectibles like thermos flasks don't have any specific gameplay function beyond achievement-hunting. However, more discoverable charms in-game or other purposeful collectibles could be a fascinating game-changer and increase replayability, giving players more reason to replay the game after beating the story. As Alan Wake 2 includes a coffee cup and lantern charm, it's possible, albeit unconfirmed, that there may be other charms that do different things for Alan or Saga. For example, a blue thermos charm could give players a temporary stamina boost when running. Although Alan's slow running speed added tension, a longer sprinting duration could prove invaluable at critical moments.
It will be interesting to see what types of collectibles could appear and what they might add to Alan Wake 2's survival horror gameplay experience. This might become clearer once the game's achievement list becomes available or as more details emerge.
Alan Wake 2 is due for release on October 17, 2023, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.